There are 75 different species and varieties of snowdrops. They are all white. Isn't that boring? This is probably why only two species are commonly cultivated. The first is Galanthus nivalis, usually known as the Garden Snowdrop.

The major benefit of planting Garden Snowdrops is their early arrival. They can show up weeks before crocuses do, and will often poke through a covering of snow. In the South, snowdrops may even bloom all winter long.

A snowdrop plant looks like three drops of milk hanging from a stem. This accounts for the Latin name Galanthus which means "milk-white flowers".

Since they are small, you probably need to plant a large number to make a dramatic effect. However, in a rock garden, or planted among other early-blooming plants like Snow Crocuses, an odd number of snowdrops here and there can be just as effective.

Under the right circumstances (see Notes) snowdrops will naturalize very well, and a planting of them can last a lifetime. They are well worth the investment. As an added benefit, snowdrops (like other members of the Amaryllis family) are normally avoided by deer and rodents.

Good for rock gardens, under trees and shrubs, at the fronts of borders or in front of flowering shrubs, in lawns, or along woodland paths
Prefers moist, humus-rich soils, sun-dappled shade, and cooler climates, as in zones 4 - 7
Naturalizes both by self-seeding and bulb offsets

If you're looking for an early bloomer, this is it. The Giant Snowdrop comes into flower even earlier than the Garden Snowdrop.

Although not a giant as flowers go, this species is taller than the Garden Snowdrop, and its blossoms and leaves are also larger. It's not quite as winter hardy, but it is somewhat more tolerant of heat, so it's a better choice for those who live in zones 8 and 9.

A single, nodding, bell-like flower, about 2" long with 3 lobes, and shorter inner segments with large green spots, hanging from a stiff, slender, leafless stalk
2 long bluish-green, strap-like leaves grow from the base of the plant

Alternate names:

Latin name: Galanthus elwesii

Notes:

Good for rock gardens, under trees and shrubs, at the fronts of borders or in front of flowering shrubs, in lawns, or along woodland paths